City Access Scaffolding completes management buyout as founders step away
City Access Scaffolding has confirmed the completion of a management buyout, marking a significant transition for the business as its original founders step away after more than a decade at the helm.
The buyout sees original co-founder Mark Skinner, alongside directors Ryan Scott and Ross Archibald, take full ownership of the company. The move formalises a leadership structure that has effectively been in place for several years, with the trio already responsible for day‑to‑day operations.
Kirsty Allan and Jonathan Allan, who co-founded the business with Skinner in 2014, have now exited the company, having gradually reduced their involvement as the operational leadership team strengthened.
The firm described the change as continuity rather than disruption, reflecting the way the business has evolved. Founded on principles of high standards, reliability and a people‑first approach, City Access Scaffolding said the buyout “represents continuity rather than change”.
Under the new structure, Skinner becomes managing director, Scott takes on the role of operations director, and Archibald becomes commercial director. The company said the alignment across strategy, operations and commercial performance provides “a clear direction for the future”.
Reflecting on the milestone, Kirsty Allan said the business had grown from a start‑up with limited capital into a recognised contractor delivering projects across Scotland. “Looking back over the past 11 years, we’re incredibly proud of what has been built – a recognised and respected brand trusted by leading clients across the construction sector. Just as importantly, we’ve invested heavily in apprentices who have come through our doors, qualified, and now deliver the City Access standard every day. The business is in a strong position, with a capable leadership team and clear direction for the future.”
She also wrote on LinkedIn that the company is “in a strong position, with a capable leadership team and clear direction for the future”.
Jonathan Allan added, “I’ve worked in this industry since I was 16 — it’s all I’ve ever known. When we started City Access, the aim was simple: build great jobs, do them properly, and put quality at the forefront every single time. I’m proud of the standard we’ve set and the team that will carry that forward.”
Skinner said the next phase would continue to focus on people, standards and long‑term progression. “City Access has always been about our people, standards, the client experience, collaboration and, above all, doing the right thing. This marks the next stage of something we’ve been building carefully for years. Our focus now is on continuing to develop and reward the people within City Access who have put in the hard work to build this business, creating real opportunity and long-term progression from within. We have a strong team, clear ambition for the future and we’re excited for the next phase.”
Scott said he was “proud to now be part of leading it into its next chapter”, adding, “City Access backed me early on and gave me the opportunity to grow with the business. The foundations are strong, and our ambition remains high.”
Archibald said the business would continue to prioritise client relationships and commercial discipline. “Our focus moving forward is on strengthening the trusted relationships we have with our clients while maintaining the commercial discipline that has supported the company’s growth. We’re excited to help guide the business through its next stage of development.”
City Access Scaffolding also reaffirmed its commitment to investing in apprentices and workforce development, maintaining the high standards that have underpinned its growth.
After 11 years of building and developing the company, Kirsty and Jonathan Allan leave the business “in a position of strength, with established leadership continuity and a clear strategic path forward”, with their contribution to the company’s culture and foundations described as remaining embedded in its future direction.








